Coordinate, regulate, or distribute electricity or steam.
Overview
Tasks
Skills
Median Annual Wage: $78,240
Education: High school diploma or equivalent (52%); Post-secondary certificate (18%); Some college, no degree (15%)
Projected Growth: Little or no change (-2% to 2%)
Related Job Titles: Journeyman Lineman; System Operator; Transmission System Operator; Electric System Operator; Control Operator; Distribution Operations Supervisor; Distribution System Operator; Power System Dispatcher; Power System Operator; Distribution Dispatcher
Prepare switching orders that will isolate work areas without causing power outages, referring to drawings of power systems.
Control, monitor, or operate equipment that regulates or distributes electricity or steam, using data obtained from instruments or computers.
Coordinate with engineers, planners, field personnel, or other utility workers to provide information such as clearances, switching orders, or distribution process changes.
Distribute or regulate the flow of power between entities, such as generating stations, substations, distribution lines, or users, keeping track of the status of circuits or connections.
Record and compile operational data, such as chart or meter readings, power demands, or usage and operating times, using transmission system maps.
Manipulate controls to adjust or activate power distribution equipment or machines.
Track conditions that could affect power needs, such as changes in the weather, and adjust equipment to meet any anticipated changes.
Calculate load estimates or equipment requirements to determine required control settings.
Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Operation Monitoring - Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Operation and Control - Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Coordination - Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.